We’re using the summer to reflect on how Jesus’ resurrection transforms our lives and what we need to do to enjoy His fullness of life. In this week’s devotion, we are reminded of where we find purpose and fulfillment:

IN WORD You belong to other church members. That may be hard to swallow in an individualistic society, but Scripture is clear. We are not our own, having been bought by the Lord; and in His gracious return, He not only gives our lives back to us, He also gives them to other Christians. Because Jesus has a claim on us, those in Christ also have a claim on us.
In Him, we are literally one. The bottom line for us is that we were born to serve not only God but others, and to the extent we don’t, we miss our purpose. Service may take a wide variety of forms—high- or low-profile, heavily spiritual or intensely practical (or both)—but it must all boil down to an edifying role in the Christian community.
More important than the form our service takes is the motive behind it. If we want to be Christians who fulfill the Word of God, we must focus our attentions, our time, our talents, and our work on others. That’s what God did, and He designed us to do the same. That attitude begins with a proper understanding of self: “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought” (v. 3). That’s where service begins—with an appropriate humility and a love for others. If we have that, the rest comes almost naturally.
IN DEED This passage, Romans 12:3-21, is perhaps the most comprehensive explanation in the New Testament of a Christian’s relationships. It addresses our relationships to other Christians, the exercise of spiritual gifts for the common good, our relationships with outsiders, and our relationships with our enemies. It covers almost all the bases. It is foundational.
A good exercise would be to read the entire passage every day this week. It isn’t very long, but it is full of power. As you read, stop and meditate on each of Paul’s pithy, pointed statements. Measure your life against them, and ask God where He wants to work. The work of relationships begins deep inside. Trust Him to begin that work in you today. “Our lives will harmonize best with God’s will . . . when they serve other people best.” —John Calvin (in “God With Us” by Chris Tiegreen)

Life is more than earning money to live a life of leisure on vacation or in retirement. Jesus has given us a higher purpose, one that transcends any lifestyle this life can offer.
Take time this week to carry out Tiegreen’s exercise to read Romans 12 reflectively, then this summer, look for ways you can put them into practice. Consider how you can better serve others on vacation, in your workplace, in your neighborhood, and yes, in church! Have a blessed week! - from Singapore, Pastor Sam